DRDO Successfully Completes User Evaluation Trials of Akash-NG Air Defence Missile System; Paves Way for Induction into Indian Armed Forces

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced on December 23, 2025 that it has successfully completed the User Evaluation Trials (UETs) of the Akash Next Generation (Akash-NG) surface-to-air missile system, clearing the way for induction into the Indian Armed Forces. During the trials, the system intercepted aerial targets at different ranges and altitudes, including near-boundary low-altitude and long-range high-altitude scenarios, meeting all Preliminary Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR). The Akash-NG is a significant upgrade over the existing Akash system. It is equipped with an indigenously developed Radio Frequency seeker, an advanced dual-pulse solid rocket motor and a modern multi-function radar and command-and-control architecture, enabling faster reaction time and greater interception range. A complete Akash-NG system comprises three vehicle types — the radar unit, the Command and Control Unit (CCU) and a canisterised launcher unit with six missile canisters — offering a significantly reduced ground footprint compared to the previous generation. The system is designed to protect Indian airspace against fast, manoeuvring aerial threats including fighter aircraft, UAVs and cruise missiles, with an effective engagement envelope extending to about 70–80 kilometres at supersonic speeds in the Mach 2.5–3 range. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended DRDO, the Indian Air Force and industry partners for this milestone, noting that the state-of-the-art system will significantly enhance the IAF's layered air-defence capabilities. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that Akash-NG is now ready for induction into operational service.